The 15 Best Upland Hunting Boots

When it comes to hunting, especially in steep, rocky upland areas, you need a pair of hunting boots with fantastic quality, comfort, and durability. Upland areas, the places you may wind up hunting pheasants or other avian prey, can be extremely rugged, wet, and downright uncomfortable. The best hunting boots will keep you dry, comfortable, and able to hike for miles without undue fatigue.

In this guide, we will show you the fifteen best upland hunting boots on the market. Our in-depth guide will go over the pros and cons of each boot that we’ve selected, as well as important key features. This way you can pick out a boot that is guaranteed to be functional and comfortable for all of your upland hunting needs, without having to do all of the legwork of researching.

Best Upland Hunting Boots

1. Irish Setter 807 Wingshooter

Boasting an aesthetic, rugged look combined with refined functionality, you can’t go wrong with the Irish Setter 807 Wingshooter boots.

Key Features

• 100% full-grain waterproof leather with Nylon liner
• Rubber sole
• EVA midsole for reduced weight

Irish Setter is a brand name that you’re going to see a lot on our list here, and for good reason. The company has spent approximately 60 years perfecting the art of manufacturing a fantastic, quality piece of footwear.

A prime example of that dedication to craftsmanship can be found in the 807 Wingshooters. A full-grain leather exterior gives a rustic, classic look to these boots while providing excellent waterproofing. Meanwhile, the Nylon-lined interior maintains essential breathability and comfort. Additionally, the padded collar of this boot will provide ankle support as well as an increased amount of comfort.

Finally, the EVA midsole brings this boot together perfectly. It helps to evenly distribute weight, and by doing that, it helps to reduce fatigue even after hours in the field or on the hunt.

Pros

• Keeps your feet dry
• Lightweight and breathable
• Great for rough turf

Cons

• May take time to break
• Not ideal for winter

The Irish Setter 807 Wingshooters are some of the best bird hunting boots available right now. Lightweight and comfortable, they make traversing rugged, unforgiving terrain a breeze.

2. Danner Pronghorn

Danner boots are marked by unprecedented quality, and their Pronghorn Gore-Tex is no exception to their exceptional standards.

Key Features

• Full-grain leather and Cordura
• Rubber sole
• The outsole provides solid traction over rugged terrain

Danner is another brand that you should expect to see a lot when looking for quality pheasant hunting boots, though they make a variety of boot types for every hunting style and game type. The Pronghorn Gore-Tex boots are arguably some of their finest products, though.

Constructed with fine, full-grain leather and Cordura textile, this boot is made to last through even the toughest conditions you may be hunting in. The sturdy rubber sole has excellent grip and is sure to last through countless, rough journeys and trips without fail. It provides excellent traction on even the most uncertain terrain.

Danner has not only perfected and patented its unique Gore-Tex waterproofing fabric, which lines the inside of this boot model, but they have also created and used Terra Force technology. This provides a lightweight platform for your feet without sacrificing durability, stability, or comfort.

Along with Ortholite footbed, which provides excellent long-term cushioning backed by comfort and performance, you can’t go wrong with these boots.

Pros

• 100% waterproof and breathable
• Lightweight
• Ortholite footbed enhances comfort

Cons

• High cost

We highly recommend the Pronghorn Gore-Tex as a solution to your upland hunting needs. Despite the higher-than-average cost, the quality of these boots more than speaks for itself, and they would make a fantastic investment for any hunting season.

3. Vaprtrek

Men aren’t the only beneficiaries of the Vaprtrek model of Irish Setter boots, and there’s no loss in quality or comfort with the women’s line.

Key Features

• Full-grain, waterproof leather uppers
• Rubber sole
• 400g of PrimaLoft insulation

Irish Setter has been making quality hunting boots for about sixty years, and the quality of their product lines shows it. They didn’t lose any of that quality when they began introducing women’s boots to their portfolio.

The 2881 Vaprtrek 8” 400g women’s hunting boot features all of the same benefits as the men’s Vaprtrek boots. This includes the full-grain, waterproof leather and camouflage uppers, the ScentBan lining, the UltraDry construction, and the impressive RPM technology.

Break these boots in and enjoy comfort, durability, and functionality on your next hunting trip!

Pros

• Lower price than similar hunting boots
• ScentBan lining
• RPM technology keeps the boot lightweight
• UltraDry construction keeps boots waterproof and comfortable

Cons

• Need time to properly be broken in
• May fit a little tighter than anticipated

With a 7 inch shaft and a combination of lightweight materials and construction, these 2881 Vaprtrek will not overbear any wearer and will allow you to hunt your prey without fatigue or discomfort.

4. Muck Woody PK

If you’re a woman and need some great bird hunting boots, look no further than the Muck Woody PK.

Key Features

• High-grade rubber construction
• Rubber sole
• Rear pull loop for easy wear and removal

Comfortable, functional, and stylish, these hunting boots are perfect for any woman that wants to enjoy hunting with a little extra flair in their step. The performance of these boots is no lesser than those of the men’s variety.

Not only are they stylish, but they also can be purchased with a warm-weather or cold-conditions package. The pack mesh lining is great for warmer weather or climates, keeping your feet cool and your boots breathable. The fleece lining option keeps your feet warm in even the coldest weather, through rain, snow, and more.

The high-grade rubber uppers and soles of this boot are completely waterproof while allowing the inside of the boot to remain totally comfortable. There is little to no chance of developing sores or blisters while wearing these boots with their EVA foam midsole, no matter what conditions you’re working or hunting in. They are easy to slip on and off by use of the rear pull loop.

Pros

• Excellent waterproofing
• Comfortable
• Lightweight and breathable

Cons

• Pink highlights break the camouflage effect
• Runs a little large

These are fantastic bird hunting boots for women, but you can use them for any kind of work or leisure outdoors.

5. Irish Setter 896

The 896 is another fantastic Wingshooter model from Irish Setter that is sure to impress and take your hunting trips to another level.

Key Features

• 100% leather
• Rubber sole
• UltraDry waterproofing system

Irish Setter is out to impress with their 896 Wingshooter Upland Hunting Boots, and they certainly don’t fall short.

The handsome, rugged design is created with a high-quality leather exterior, giving an old-school look to these modern, comfortable boots. 400g Thinsulate lining works tirelessly alongside the UltraDry, multi-layer construction to make sure your feet stay comfortably dry even in the wettest conditions during your hunting trip or hike. These components promise long-lasting comfort and performance.

A multi-treaded outsole delivers a firm grip on all terrain types and guarantees a strong, unwavering footing in the most precarious positions. This will allow you to stay focused on accurately tracking your intended target, rather than having to pay extra mind or caution to your footing.

Pros

• Comfortable and lightweight
• Insulated
• Keeps feet dry in all conditions

Cons

• Can be difficult to break initially

Once you take the time to properly break into the 896, they will undoubtedly keep your feet protected and comfortable for any hunting trip you aim to embark on, no matter the quarry or terrain.

6. Wolverine King Caribou III

While many upland boots have traditionally focused on completely leather uppers, Wolverine’s King Caribou III Hunting Boots has found a perfect balance of leather and nylon to provide a balanced, lightweight boot that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Key Features

• Leather and Cordura Nylon split
• Rubber sole
• Waterproof and insulated

Wolverine has stepped up to the plate to provide a boot that is not only comfortable and fully-functional but one that is undeniably pleasing in the aesthetic sense. While style isn’t the most important factor in a quality upland hunting boot, it is nice to have a balance of comfort and style.

The leather and Cordura Nylon combination in the boot’s design makes for a fantastically lightweight design that is not only great for breathability, but also for resisting and rejecting water. Many customers have claimed to be able to stand for hours in mud, water, and snow without these boots leaking at all.

An added bonus of all of the above when talking about these boots is that they’re reportedly easy to break-in. They do so quickly and comfortably without any extra work on your part, meaning you can enjoy them on long treks much quicker than you would with some other models of hunting boots.

Pros

• Removable full-cushioned footbeds for comfort
• Waterproof and comfortable
• Reportedly easy to break-in
• Stylish

Cons

• Some customers claimed the boot fit was narrower than anticipated

The Wolverine’s King Caribou III is easy to break in and providing impressive comfort and durability, these boots are a great choice for any hunter to invest in.

7. WOOD N’ STREAM 6002

Made in the USA with an impressive level of quality, the Wood N’ Stream 6002 Flyway Boots are classically good-looking with amazing support.

Key Features

• 100% leather
• Rubber sole
• Removable single-density polyurethane

If these boots look familiar, it’s probably because they look similar to the Irish Setter Wingshooter boots in this guide. But don’t be fooled – there are a few key differences in these brands and their boots, though they both boast an excellent quality of production.

These Flyway boots are extremely lightweight, and almost feel like you aren’t wearing anything at all were it not for the fantastic grip of the sole and the protection they offer even as you traverse impossible areas.

The high-quality leather is great and breathes nicely while maintaining its waterproof nature. These boots are beyond comfortable and will allow you to be on your feet from dawn to dusk without having to worry about uncomfortable blisters or an excess amount of fatigue.

Pros

• Waterproof and breathable
• Goodyear welt construction for increased durability
• Customers say this boot is particularly comfortable
• Quick break-in time

Cons

• Sizes tend to run a little smaller than expected

Order a half-size or so up from what you usually wear, and you’re good to go with these bird hunting boots. They’ll keep your feet dry and comfortable while you work.

8. Danner Men’s Sharptail

Worried about local snakes taking a crack at you? Worry no more with Danner’s Sharptail Snake Boots.

Key Features

• Full-grain leather upper with lightweight nylon
• Rubber sole
• The rear gusset offers an adjustable fit

Along with the other Danner boots on this list, the Sharptail Snake Boots are unique and boast a high quality all their own. It’s hard to expect anything less than quality when you consider that Danner has been manufacturing hunting boots for about 85 years now, and they certainly seem to know what they’re doing.

These boots stand out from the other Danner models on this list because they feature a snake-proof TPU shank. If you live or hunt in an area with particularly antsy or venomous snake species, this is a great thing to have just in case you don’t see the upset reptile before you take your next step.

The leather and Nylon combination of these boots keep them soft and flexible for easy wear and maneuverability. Danner’s Gore-Tex lining keeps the boot waterproof but breathable, while the removable polyurethane footbed ensures that heat is channeled away from your feet to cut down on sweating. This model of the boot also features fantastic traction and incredibly durable soles.

Pros

• Snake-proof TPU Shank
• Wide opening and tall shaft
• Ortholite cushioned footbed for comfort

Cons

• A bit costly
• Some customers aren’t a huge fan of the aesthetic design of the boot

If snakes are something you worry about biting through your boots or you’re particularly prone to thorns biting through your pants or over your boots, these Danner’s Sharptail Snake Boots are the perfect solution for your next hunting excursion.

9. Thorogood Flyway

Thorogood’s Flyway will keep your feet dry and fatigue-free as you line up your shot.

Key Features

• Full-grain leather construction
• Indy 6 outsole
• Made in the USA

Thorogood makes some impressively great boots overall, but their 6-Inch Flyway boots had to make our list. These boots have a breathable, X-Stream waterproof membrane that will keep your feet dry and comfortable. As an additional bonus, they are blood-borne pathogen compliant.

These boots are impressive, and will undoubtedly exceed even the most avid upland bird hunter’s requirements. The cushioned footbed is removable and will keep you comfortable even after a long day on the toughest terrain.

The rubber midsole of this boot is great for shock absorption, and the Goodyear welt construction promises to remain durable through years of wear. A simple but effective multi-directional pattern in the outsole resists mud and grit and keeps you from slipping in any conditions.

Pros

• Excellent shock absorption
• Easy to break in according to customer reviews
• Waterproof and very comfortable

Cons

• Some customers were not a fan of the gusseted tongue
• Cost may not be budget-friendly

While they may be a bit more expensive than others, you’re getting what you pay for with the Thorogood’s Flyways and it’s not a purchase any intense hunter would regret.

10. R RUNFUN

Undoubtedly the most budget-friendly option on our list, the R RUNFUN still meets the high-quality standards of all of our suggested upland hunting boots.

Key Features

• Breathable nylon materials
• Anti-slip sole
• Insulated with 200G 3M Thinsulate

The low cost of these boots can be attributed to the Nylon-combination materials used in the construction materials. Make no mistake, they are still as waterproof and breathable as any other boot on this list and maybe more lightweight than some of the other options on our list.

The EVA midsole reduces stress during long hunting trips and will relieve pressure off your feet while you travel. The sole is made to reduce slippage drastically, meaning you will be safe on any kind of wet or loose footing.

Pros

• Very low cost compared to other upland hunting boots
• Extremely comfortable
• Comes with a long-term warranty
• Impressive camo pattern

Cons

• Some customers are not fans of the nylon materials used in construction

R Runfun is an arguably newer brand in the hunting boot industry, but they are dedicated to the quality and affordability of their hand-made products.

11. Lacrosse Women’s Alphaburly

Hunt confidently in the lightweight, premium Lacrosse Women’s Alphaburly’s.

Key Features

• Hand-laid premium rubber with neoprene core
• Multilayer rubber heel and toe
• Two different color options

LaCrosse makes fantastic hunting boots for men and women alike, and the Alphaburly Pro model is no exception to the high industry standards. It features a premium, natural rubber that is hand-laid over an insulating neoprene interior. This means that you get an increased level of durability, flexibility, and comfort while you hunt.

These boots have a unique tread pattern that gives you all of the traction to move comfortably and confidently through the most demanding terrain. The tread features chamfered edges that shed all kinds of mud and muck, allowing you to move quickly with unquestionable certainty.

The rubber exterior of these boots helps to keep your scent suppressed, ultimately combining comfort with unequaled scent protection.

Pros

• The embossed liner increases air circulation
• Quick-drying
• Neoprene gusset for easy wear and removal
• Increased support and durability
• Scent-free

Cons

• May fit tightly on larger calves

The Lacrosse Women’s Alphaburly’s remain durable, flexible, and comfortable no matter where, how, or what you choose to hunt.

12. Irish Setter 2870 Vaprtrek

The 2870 Vaprtreks bring all the heart and soul of a hunting boot with the comfort and sole of an athletic shoe.

Key Features

• Synthetic materials used in construction
• Rubber sole
• Realtree Xtra Camouflage

The Vaprtrek boots by Irish Setter feature new RPM technology. This is a breakthrough in composite materials that significantly reduces the boot’s weight and provides additional, extreme comfort and endurance. These boots are engineered to provide the durability and strength of traditional materials, without the extra, unnecessary weight.

Along with featuring Irish Setter’s UltraDry technology and construction, these boots also feature another Irish Setter exclusive: ScentBan. ScentBan is added to various materials throughout the construction of the boot, from the leathers to the footbeds. This kills the bacteria that are responsible for foot odors.

Pros

• Lightweight
• ScentBan scent control
• Waterproof
• Extremely durable
• Customers say these boots are amazingly comfortable

Cons

• Fit may run small so you may have to order a half-size up
• Ankle opening appears to fit too tightly for some customers

Waterproof, durable, and with innovative technologies built right in, the 2870 Vaprtreks are well worth checking out no matter your level of hunting expertise.

13. 801 Havocs

Perfect for warmer climates where you don’t need heavy or insulated hunting boots, the 801 Havocs are a great option for many hunters.

Key Features

• Premium, USA-made leather uppers
• Rubber sole
• Comfortable, padded collar and tongue

If you have a particular climate, terrain, or lifestyle, you can bet that Irish Setter has a hunting boot that will suit your needs. This is proven to be true when you look at and consider the 801 Havoc boots.

The Gore-Tex lining keeps these upland hunting boots breathable and waterproof, meaning you can wear these boots as long as you want or need to and your feet are guaranteed to stay dry and cool. Additionally, the polyurethane footbed of this boot also sports ergonomic channels that help to improve airflow even under your soles.

The comfort is unrivaled, and that’s only aided by the ability to have this boot fit as snugly and comfortably as possible. This can be achieved by using the posts and eyelets with a tight lace-up.

Pros

• Reasonably priced for the quality
• Waterproof
• Comfortable and durable

Cons

• Non-insulated, but appropriate socks will be adequate protection in colder conditions
• Is a little pricey

It may cost you a bit more, but you’re absolutely getting a quality product in the 801 Havocs if you choose to purchase them.

14. Arctic Pro

If you’re planning to do any hunting in the snow or otherwise frigid climates, you should consider the Arctic Pro by Muck Boot.

Key Features

• Synthetic rubber exterior with fabric lining
• Rubber sole
• Easy, pull-on design with stretch-fit comfort

With a soft but durable fleece lining and a 2mm thermal foam under the footbed for added warmth and comfort, the Arctic Pro hunting boot model ensures that your feet will stay warm and comfortable even if you choose to hunt in the tundra. These boots are tested and guaranteed to keep your feet warm in temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit.

With an easy pull-on design, you won’t have to worry about struggling to put these boots on or take them off. Additionally, they feature a stretch-fit comfort topline that will rest snugly against your calf, keeping out the cold and snow and sealing in warmth.

There is also double reinforcement in the instep of this boot, as well as at the heel and the Achilles area. This gives added stability while providing comfort.

Pros

• Soft, comfortable fleece lining that will keep your feet warm
• Lightweight EVA midsole and rugged, durable outsole
• 100% waterproof
• Multiple color options available

Cons

• Some customers felt that the insole was not of a high enough quality for long-term or frequent use

While all of the boots in this guide are waterproof and can survive a multitude of conditions, the Arctic Pro takes the top spot for resisting particularly cold conditions without sacrificing functionality or comfort.

15. Danner Pronghorn

Danner’s Pronghorn flaunt twenty years of quality and a classic, comfortable design that you’re sure to enjoy.

Key Features

• Full-grain leather and nylon
• Rubber sole
• Ortholite cushion and textile lining

Danner’s Pronghorn boots have been constantly improving over the last twenty years when the design was first introduced and took the hunting world by storm. While Danner continues to improve on the quality of materials and functionality of their designs, they seem to have hit a sweet spot with the Pronghorn line.

Full-grain leather uppers with 900 denier Nylon textile make these boots functional, comfortable, and breathable. The shaft of this boot spans about eight inches from the arch up, making sure that you have plenty of coverage and protection from whatever elements you may be trekking through.

The Terra-Force platform features internal and external Nylon shanks, and as with the other modern models of Danner boots, these have the OrthoLite cushioned footbeds.

Pros

• Terra-Force platform
• Comfortable
• Excellent grip

Cons

• May be difficult to break
• May be tight even after breaking

The most concerning problem people have with these Pronghorn boots is that the boots seem to be a little tight even after breaking, but long-time fans of the Pronghorn line say that that’s how things have always been. You may have to order a half-size up from what you normally do to guarantee a great fit, but it’s absolutely worth it to get these high-quality upland hunting boots.

Bottom Line

Upland hunting boots are designed especially for those who need a lighter, but still protected step when tracking game through the woods, wetlands, or any kind of unforgiving terrain. Traditionally, upland hunting boots are made for bird hunters.

But in recent years, many other hunters have found a quieter, more lightweight boot to be beneficial as well. This is only aided by the fact that these boots also tend to be more comfortable.

No matter what upland hunting boots you choose, you should make sure that they are comfortable, breathable, and waterproof at a minimum. You should be sure they are made of quality materials as well, because the more durable materials your boots are made of, the longer they ought to last.

Keep in mind to check reviews regarding the fit of the boots you have in mind – some boots may run large or small depending on the manufacturer and design or cut of the boot.